The city is continuing efforts to save money and become more energy efficient by replacing the lighting at the wastewater treatment facility. City Council approved the purchase and work that is estimated to save approximately $2,200 per year at its July 18 meeting.
In September 2015, Michaels Energy, a La Crosse, Wis. based energy efficiency specialist, performed a Level II energy audit at the wastewater treatment facility in Newton. Through the audit, Michaels Energy found it would be beneficial for the city to replace all existing high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting with light-emitting diode, or LED, fixtures.
The entirety of the project includes an electrical contractor supplying and installing eight exterior LED pole lights, 10 exterior LED down lights and six interior LED high bay lights.
The project was let out for bid and received three quotes for the work. JETCO of Altoona was approved with the low bid of $16,434. DPAI and Van Maanen Electric, both of Newton, also bid the project at $19,975 and $23,425, respectively.
“This project is also eligible for a custom energy efficiency rebate from Alliant Energy of up to 38 percent of the equipment and installation costs,” city administrator Bob Knabel said.
LED lighting is currently one of the most energy-efficient lighting technologies available. Quality LED light bulbs last longer, are more durable and offer comparable or better light quality than other types of lighting according to the United States Department of Energy.
In terms of usage, LED bulbs can be six to seven times more energy efficient and cut energy use by more than 80 percent. They can have a useful life of more than 25,000 house, lasting 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs.
Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com